Leslie is a conservation scientist with a strong commitment to transparent, scientifically based ecological restoration. She earned her PhD from the University of Kentucky in 2020, building expertise across a diverse range of ecosystems from temperate forests to polar habitats. Over the past three years, she has applied her technical knowledge to the mitigation banking industry, focusing on the design, monitoring, and long-term success of stream and wetland restoration projects. Leslie is particularly motivated by the challenge of ensuring that sound restoration practices are effectively integrated into meaningful and repeatable regulatory frameworks. Her work emphasizes the importance of bridging science, policy, and practical implementation to achieve lasting conservation outcomes. Outside of her professional endeavors, Leslie enjoys gardening, taking care of her chickens, and hiking.